How do I get Straighter Teeth?

A beautiful smile with perfectly straight teeth is the dream of many people. However, many believe that if they weren’t given braces as a teenager, they don’t have any more options for correcting their teeth. This isn’t the case, there are actually many different options for achieving beautiful, straight teeth. In this post, we’ll outline some of the most popular options and help you decide which one might be the right choice for you.

Braces

When you think of teeth straightening, you probably picture someone wearing traditional metal braces. Although they sometimes get a bad rap, braces are one of the most effective treatments for severe misalignment or bite issues. If you’re concerned about the appearance of braces, our orthodontists recommend invisible braces from Six Month Smiles which are much less noticeable than the traditional option.

The downside is that braces can be uncomfortable and the brackets can cause minor irritation to the cheeks and gums. They can also be limiting since sticky, chewy or hard foods may damage the brace so should be avoided. Plus, learning to brush with braces can be a challenge. Specialist brushes are recommended to keep teeth as clean as possible and avoid discolouration.

Cosmetic Bonding

Cosmetic bonding is a popular treatment for reshaping teeth and is a much more affordable option than porcelain veneers. Bonding helps to correct minor issues such as irregularly shaped teeth, chips, or spacing. This is accomplished with a composite resin that is also used to fill cavities. This is a non-invasive procedure that takes around an hour depending on the number of issues that need to be corrected.

Although this is one of the more affordable options, it’s less popular because it’s only useful for minor issues as mentioned. But can still make a significant difference. It is also a one-time procedure that doesn’t need ongoing care. When well-maintained, bonding can last up to eight years before it needs replacing. Overall, this is a good option if the teeth need reshaping to achieve the perfect smile, but is less useful for crowding or moderate to severe misalignment.

Clear Aligners

Invisalign is the leading brand of clear aligners and one of the most popular treatments for adults. Clear aligners are much less noticeable than traditional braces and can be taken out to eat and drink, which is much more comfortable and less messy. Invisalign aligners are made from medical-grade plastic that is moulded to fit your teeth. They look similar to the clear retainers often given as an after-treatment to braces.

For the best results, Invisalign aligners are worn for 22 hours a day (taken out to eat or drink) for up to 18 months. These are a more expensive option to straighten teeth, but the effects can be dramatic. We often recommend Invisalign for patients who have moderate alignment issues that do not require more invasive braces.

Get a Free Consultation Today

If you’re dreaming of a beautiful set of straight teeth but you’re not sure which option is best for you, call us today to book a free consultation. We’ll assess your teeth and recommend the best course of treatment.